Sheffield Steelers not surprised by generosity of fans after coronavirus leads to premature ending of league season

The outbreak of coronavirus signalled an early completion of the EIHL in both league and play off forms, with overseas players flying off home as quickly as was possible.

Steelers season tickets covered the cancelled Arena games involving Manchester Storm, last Saturday, Dundee Stars (March 21) and Cardiff Devils (March 29.)

Steelers had been banking on 8,000 fans for the Storm game, they had planned to raise the Challenge Cup banner before the game with Stars and had a potential winner-takes-all contest at the end of the regular season against Devils.

With that revenue gone, plus the loss of the post-season play off tournament, Steelers have been hit hard, although perhaps nowhere near as hard as other, less well off EIHL teams who were utterly dependent on that cash coming in.

Steelers' official Dave Simms canvassed fans' on-line opinions about the potential refunding of season ticket cash.

Some fans said they were happy to see it re-invested in next year's team.

Simms said: "I'm not at all surprised at the reaction.

"There are severe financial implications for our club and all the others since the rest of the season was cancelled.

"At such a stressful time, to hear fans saying what they are is a huge relief.

"I like to think our club has given value for money for most of the season and that is the message I heard at a charity event in Sheffield last week, as well as online.

"When a team loses three gates it is bound to have a huge impact. Every club is feeling the pinch.

"It is always an expensive time of the season when you are flying players back home. And without the traditional late season attendance money it makes it even more difficult a period, so goodwill from the fans means a lot."

On Facebook, Nigel Beatson posted: "We've had a good season, quite happy with what we have received for the fee! Roll on next season!"

Jackie Smith added: "No need to refund. We've had a thoroughly enjoyable season watching this team. Thanks to the players, staff and owner."

Phil Burgan wrote: "I'm happy for the club to keep the remainder."

John Duckmanton added: "My wife and I both have season tickets and we both agree that we do not want a refund but would rather the club keep the money to help keep both the club and the league going through what is bound to be a very difficult time ahead. We have had a brilliant season and got more than our money's worth."

Kirstine Smith said: "I don’t want any money back - put it back into our amazing club."

And that was mirrored by Jo-Anne Mullins: "No refund needed. Would rather the club/league put this money into a fund for financial aid in these tough times.”

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